Advanced Placement Program

QSI Shenzhen provides students with the opportunity to enroll in the College Board’s Advanced Placement (AP) program, which offers a flexible academic option that allows for an individualized approach to advanced learning. Unlike the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, which requires students to follow a structured curriculum across multiple subjects, the AP program adopts an a la carte selection of university-level courses. This means that students who demonstrate readiness and qualification can choose specific subjects that align with their interests and academic goals.

Structure and Rigor of AP Courses

AP courses at QSI Shenzhen are designed to be rigorous and are taught over the course of one academic year, culminating in a standardized final exam each May. These courses not only cover advanced content but also adhere to the pacing expected at the university level. Students opting for AP classes should be prepared for a demanding workload that mirrors the expectations and challenges faced by college students. This preparation is vital, as success in AP courses is indicative of a student’s ability to handle higher education coursework effectively.

Encouragement for AP Participation

QSI Shenzhen actively encourages all students in Secondary I and II to take one or more AP courses, even if they plan to transition into the IB Diploma Programme during their Secondary III and IV years. Engaging in AP classes not only challenges students academically but also enhances their college applications by demonstrating their capability to perform at a university level early in their educational journey. Furthermore, AP courses provide foundational knowledge that can be beneficial for certain IB subjects, creating a seamless transition between these two advanced programs.

Recognition and Global Acceptance

The AP program is widely recognized by American universities, with many institutions granting college credit for scores of 3 or higher on a scale of 1 to 5. However, its reputation extends beyond the United States; universities around the world acknowledge the rigor associated with AP courses, making them a valuable asset for students seeking admission to competitive programs globally.

Available AP Courses

At QSI Shenzhen, students have access to a diverse range of AP courses, including AP 2D Art and Design, AP 3D Art and design, AP Human Geography, AP World History, AP Psychology, AP Macroeconomics, AP Microeconomics, AP English Literature & Composition, AP Chemistry, AP Physics 1, AP Environmental Science, AP Calculus AB, AP Statistics, AP Computer Science, and AP Chinese Secondary. This variety allows students to tailor their educational experience according to their interests and career aspirations.